8 [23]

Aggregate Expenditure and

Equilibrium Output

hapter objectives:

1.

2.
3.

4.

5.

Describe the relationship between consumption and income. Define the

marginal propensity to consume (MPC) and the marginal propensity to save
(MPS).
Explain how actual investment and intended investment differ. Describe the
role of inventory change in establishing equilibrium in the economy.
Derive and graph the planned aggregate expenditure (AE) function. State
why its slope has a value of less than one. Describe the adjustment process
when planned aggregate expenditure differs from aggregate output. Use the
expenditure and output approach and the saving/investment
(leakages/injections) approach to specify the meaning of equilibrium in the
model.
Analyze the effects on the macroeconomy of a change in planned
investment or consumption. Describe the role of the multiplier in the
inventory-adjustment process and, given MPC, derive the numerical value
of the multiplier.
Describe the reasoning behind the paradox of thrift and explain what is
paradoxical.

Give yourself plenty of time to understand the model developed in this chapterits the basis for
what comes later. Can you prove that aggregate output does equal aggregate income? Can you
confirm that income must equal consumption plus saving? Given the consumption function diagram,
can you draw the related saving function diagram? Can you derive the consumption and saving
equations? Can you see how unplanned inventory changes balance expenditures and output? Can
you see why a $100 change in investment is multiplied? If not, work through this chapter again.

LEARNING TIP: Dont skip over the introductory material on pp. 139-140 [451-452]. This easilymissed little section sets the scene and establishes the structure of the macroeconomy (goods-andservices and money markets leading to aggregate demand and the labor market leading to aggregate
supply) analyzed in Chapters 8-14 (23-29). The figure on page 139 [451] will be referenced
throughout.

BRAIN TEASER: Do a thought experiment. Suppose your after-tax monthly income rose by $100.
What would you do with the extra money? How much would you spend; how much would you
193

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Study Guide to Principles of Macroeconomics

save? Calculate your marginal propensity to consume and your marginal propensity to save.
Calculate the expenditure multiplier. Case, Fair and Oster observe that the actual expenditure
multiplier for the American economy is about 1.4. Can you explain the apparent discrepancy?

OBJECTIVE 1:
Describe the relationship between consumption and income. Define the marginal propensity to
consume (MPC) and the marginal propensity to save (MPS).
In the complete model of the economy, aggregate expenditure (AE) is found by adding: C + I + G +
(EX IM). That formula now simplifies to AE = C + I because the model in this chapter has only two
sectors (household and business) and only one market (goods-and-services). (page 142 [454])
For households, income (Y) is split between consumption (C) and saving (S). Determinants
of aggregate consumption include
i.
ii.
iii.
iv.

Household income
Household wealth
Interest rates
Household expectations about the future

The Index of Consumer Confidence is a closely watched variableas confidence sags about our
future income, so does consumer spending, especially on durable goods. (page 145 [457])
If your monthly salary increases by $100, your consumption rises too, but by something less
than $100. How much of the extra $100 you choose to spend depends on your marginal propensity
to consume (MPC). If you spend $80, MPC is 80/100 = 0.8. Marginal propensity to save (MPS) is
20/100 = 0.2 because any income not spent is saved ($20 out of $100). Clearly, MPC + MPS must
sum to one (100% of any extra income must be spent or saved). (page 143 [455])

LEARNING TIP: Keep in mind that we are considering real variables, not nominal ones. Although
it is convenient to talk in terms of dollar amounts of consumption, income or output, ultimately real
quantities prevail rather than prices.
LEARNING TIP: In Chapter 9 (24), we introduce taxes. This affects the calculation of MPC and MPS.
Youll find the transition easier if you read the denominator term, change in income, as change in
disposable (after-tax) income. In this chapter, the former term is identical with the latter (with no
taxes, all income is disposable income); in Chapter 9 (24), MPC and MPS will be based on the change
in disposable income.

The Keynesian consumption function shows the relationship between consumption spending
and income; its slope (rise over run) is the value of MPC (change in consumption over
change in income or C/Y). For simplicity, Keynes assumed a straight-line relationship.
Algebraically, the consumption function is:
C = a + bY

(page 144 [456])

A similar function, the saving function, can be developed because consumption and saving
are related activities. Given income, the amount consumed determines the amount saved and vice
versa.
Note: You can calculate MPS (and, therefore, MPC) quickly if you have the intercept value
(a) and the income value (Y) where the consumption function intersects the 45 line. MPS = a/Y. Use
this trick in Practice Question 6 to confirm your answer.
Graphing Pointer: The 45 line is a reference line that helps you to read the graph. Use the
45 line to determine when saving is zero (or positive or negative) when the consumption function is

Chapter 8 [23]: Aggregate Expenditure and Equilibrium Output

195

drawn. Saving is zero when consumption crosses the 45 line. In this and subsequent chapters, the
45 line will help you to determine equilibrium aggregate output. Check your understanding of this
in Practice Question 5.
Practice
1.

Aggregate consumption will certainly increase if

(a)
income increases and wealth decreases.
(b)
income increases and interest rates decrease.
(c)
interest rates increase and household wealth increases.
(d)
interest rates increase and consumer confidence about the future strengthens.
ANSWER: (b) Lower interest rates reduce the cost of borrowing. Refer to p. 145 [457].

2.

Given the income level, saving is directly (positively) related to

(a)
interest rates and wealth, and inversely (negatively) related to households
expectations about the future.
(b)
interest rates, and inversely (negatively) related to wealth and households
expectations about the future.
(c)
households expectations about the future, and inversely (negatively) related to
interest rates and wealth.
(d)
wealth, and inversely (negatively) related to interest rates and households
expectations about the future.
ANSWER: (b) Higher interest rates encourage saving. As wealth increases and households
become richer, and/or as households expectations about the future improve,
consumption increases. Given the income level, though, saving must
decrease if consumption increases. Refer to p. 145 [457].

3.

When MPC is 0.75, MPS is

(a)
0.25.
(b)
0.75.
(c)
3.00.
(d)
4.00.
ANSWER: (a) MPC + MPS = 1. Refer to p. 143 [455].

4.

The consumption function is C = 200 + 0.9Y. The saving function is

(a)
S = 200 0.1Y.
(b)
S = 200 0.1Y.
(c)
S = 200 0.9Y.
(d)
S = 200 + 0.1Y.
ANSWER: (d) Recall that Y = C + S. The equations must sum to Y. The first term must be
negative because consumption is positive. Also, recall that saving increases
as income increasesthe second term must be positive.

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Use the following diagram to answer the next three questions.

C
45
C
800

4000

Aggregate output

5.

and saving equals

.
When income equals 4,000, consumption equals
(a)
4,000; 0
(b)
3,200; 800
(c)
4,000; 4,000
(d)
2,000; 2,000
ANSWER: (a) The 45 line shows all the points at which the variable on the vertical axis
equals the variable on the horizontal axis, in this case, where C = Y. If Y =
4,000, C = 4,000. If all income is being spent, saving must be zero.

6.

The equation for this consumption function is

(a)
C = 800 + 0.75Y.
(b)
C = 800 + 0.8Y.
(c)
C = 4,000 + 0.75Y.
(d)
C = 4,000 + 0.8Y.
ANSWER: (b) The intercept term (a) is 800. As income increases from 0 to 4,000,
consumption increases from 800 to 4,000, an increase of 3,200. MPC
= change in consumption/change in income = C/Y = 3,200/4,000 = 0.8.

Note: When the consumption (saving) function intercepts the vertical axis, the associated
value indicates the level of consumption (saving), which is independent of income. If income = 0,
this level of spending (saving) would still exist.
7.

and saving is
.
If income is 6,000, consumption is
(a)
4,800; 1,200
(b)
5,600; 400
(c)
5,200; 1,000
(d)
6,000; 0
ANSWER: (b) When Y = 4,000, C = 4,000 and S = 0. MPC = 0.8. As income increases by
2,000 (from 4,000 to 6,000), consumption will increase by 2,000 0.8, or
1,600. Consumption will total 5,600 (4,000 + 1,600). We know that Y = C +
S, therefore S = Y C. S = 6,000 5,600 = 400. Option (c) cannot be correct
because C + S must equal income (Y), and 5,200 + 1,000 does not equal
6,000.

ECONOMICS IN PRACTICE: On page 147 [459], the textbook looks at saving behavior. Saving is
rather like exercise or studying for examswe know its a good thing to do, but we still might not

Chapter 8 [23]: Aggregate Expenditure and Equilibrium Output

197

wish to do it. Essentially, its a trade-off between current enjoyment and future enjoyment. Keynes
famously remarked, In the long run were all dead. If our focus is purely short run, were unlikely
to save. In order to increase the likelihood of saving, either the benefit from current consumption
must be reduced or the gain from future consumption must be increased. Can you think of some
ways that the trade-off could be adjusted to encourage additional saving? Include government
policies if you wish.
ANSWER: Higher interest rates encourage additional saving. Reduced taxes on interest income or
schemes to defer taxes, such as IRAs (Individual Retirement Accounts) are government policy
options. Higher taxes on consumption may also stimulate saving. Simply having funds
automatically contributed to saving reduces the conscious effort (cost) involved in saving and is a
successful way to accumulate wealth. In addition, saving for a particular short-term or long-term
goal makes it easier to forgo current consumption. Reductions in the risk involved in saving (less
fear of bank default or loss of the value of investments because of oversight of the financial system)
will prompt more households to surrender current consumption. Finally, a society in which saving is
emphasized as a virtue is likely to produce thrifty behavior.

OBJECTIVE 2:
Explain how actual investment and intended investment differ. Describe the role of inventory
change in establishing equilibrium in the economy.
Planned investment (I) is assumed to remain constant as output level changesinvestment graphs as
a horizontal line. However, actual investment can differ from planned investment because of
unplanned changes in the level of inventories. (page 146 [458])

LEARNING TIP: Investment is one of the most difficult concepts to learn. Economists use the word
differently from others. Investment does not mean saving, not even financial investment although, in
this model, saving and investment are equal when the system is in equilibrium. Investment is the
purchase of new machinery and buildings (productive capacity) and changes in inventory levels. In
contrast, if you save you are not purchasing.

Note that firms buy more than investment goods. They hire workers, for example. To count
this expenditure would be double countingthe wages are used by households for consumption and
saving.

LEARNING TIP: In this model, actual investment will always equal saving but that, only in
equilibrium, will planned investment equal saving. In equilibrium, unplanned inventory investment
will be zero.

If aggregate output exceeds (is less than) consumption and planned investment, there will be
an unplanned increase (decrease) in inventory investment. (For an example, refer to Application
3.) (page 148 [460])

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Study Guide to Principles of Macroeconomics

Unplanned Inventory Change and Equilibrium: Unplanned inventory changes

draw the economy into equilibrium. Call expenditures demand and output
supply for the moment. When demand is more than current supply, firms
must sell their previously accumulated inventory. Emptying shelves are the signal to
increase production.
When demand is less than supply, unsold production piles upthe
signal to cut output.
Firms feel no pressure to adjust production levels (i.e., there is equilibrium)
only when demand equals supply.
Also, when unplanned inventory change is not zero (either positive or
negative), the actual level of investment differs from the level managers wish to
have. If, for example, actual investment is too low, managers will boost
production to compensate.

LEARNING TIP: An economic system requires some mechanism to drive it towards equilibrium. In
the market for coffee, the equilibrating mechanism is price. In our model, price is fixed and the
equilibrating mechanism is unplanned inventory change. When unplanned inventory change occurs, it
is a signal to adjust output.

Practice
8.

Investment refers to
(a)
the purchase of new stock in a company.
(b)
the purchase of new or existing stock in a company.
(c)
the creation of capital stock.
(d)
the stock of accumulated saving.
ANSWER: (c) Investment is the addition to the capital stock. Financial transactions are
excluded from GDPreview Chapter 6 (21).

9.

The change in inventories is

(a)
production minus sales.
(b)
sales minus production.
(c)
a value equal to or greater than zero, but cannot be negative.
(d)
consumption minus saving.
ANSWER: (a) Refer to p. 146 [458].

OBJECTIVE 3:
Derive and graph the planned aggregate expenditure (AE) function. State why its slope has a
value of less than one. Describe the adjustment process when planned aggregate expenditure
differs from aggregate output. Use the expenditure and output approach and the
saving/investment (leakages/injections) approach to specify the meaning of equilibrium in the
model.
Planned aggregate expenditure is the sum of consumption and planned investment at each income
level. Because planned investment is assumed to be constant at each income level, the AE function is
an upward sloping line whose slope equals MPC. (page 147 [459])

Chapter 8 [23]: Aggregate Expenditure and Equilibrium Output

199

LEARNING TIP: Sometimes youll find understanding easier if you think about output, and
sometimes about income. For example, When unplanned inventory reductions occur, output level
will rise is more obvious than When unplanned inventory reductions occur, income level will rise.
However, Output is split between consumption and saving is much less intuitive than Income is
split between consumption and saving.

Equilibrium occurs when planned aggregate expenditure equals aggregate output

(income)i.e., when C + I = C + S. Only then does planned investment equal actual investment
there is no unplanned inventory change.
Getting to Equilibrium: If output is less than planned expenditures (Y < C + I), inventory
levels unexpectedly decrease below the desired level. Firms respond by increasing production.
Higher production results in higher income and, given MPC, greater consumption spending.
Spending increases, but at a slower rate than output increases. Eventually, the two will be equal.
If output exceeds planned expenditures (Y > C + I), inventory levels are unexpectedly added
to. Firms respond rising levels of unsold output by decreasing production. Lower production results
in lower income and, given MPC, less consumption spending. Spending falls, but at a slower rate
than output falls. Eventually, the two will be equal.
In each case, how big a change in output level is needed to achieve equilibrium depends on
the value of the multiplier. (page 151 [463])
The conditions necessary for equilibrium can be stated in different ways.
(a)
(b)

(c)

If actual and planned investment differ, the economy is not in equilibrium.

Equilibrium condition: planned investment must equal actual investment.
Aggregate planned expenditure must equal aggregate output (income).
Therefore, C + I = C + S.
Equilibrium condition: planned investment must equal planned saving.
Because, in equilibrium, planned investment must equal actual investment
Equilibrium condition: unplanned investment must equal zero.

Theres no requirement that the equilibrium level of production will be enough to provide
full employment to the economys workers.
Note: Unlike most other curves you have seen, the consumption, investment, saving, and AE
functions are all shown to increase by moving vertically upward (not to the right).
Graphically, equilibrium must occur where the AE function crosses the 45 line. The 45
line plots all the points where spending equals outputi.e., all the points where equilibrium might
occur.
Practice
Use the following table to answer the next six questions.

Output
2,000
3,000
4,000
5,000
6,000
7,000
10.

Consumption
2,100
2,850
3,600
4,350
5,100
5,850

Investment
400
400
400
400
400
400

Planned Aggregate
Expenditure

Unplanned Change
in Inventory

Complete the planned aggregate expenditure column in the preceding table.

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Study Guide to Principles of Macroeconomics

ANSWER: Refer to the following table.

Output
2,000
3,000
4,000
5,000
6,000
7,000

Consumption
2,100
2,850
3,600
4,350
5,100
5,850

Investment
400
400
400
400
400
400

Planned Aggregate
Expenditure
2,500
3,250
4,000
4,750
5,500
6,250

Unplanned Change
in Inventory
500
250
0
+250
+500
+750

11.

Equilibrium output level is

(a)
3,000.
(b)
4,000.
(c)
5,000.
(d)
6,000.
ANSWER: (b) Equilibrium occurs where output equals planned aggregate expenditure.

12.

Complete the unplanned change in inventory column in the preceding table.

ANSWER:
Refer to Question 10 for the completed table. Unplanned change in
inventory is the difference between output and planned aggregate
expenditure.

13.

In the preceding table, MPC is

(a)
0.6.
(b)
0.75.
(c)
0.8.
(d)
0.9.
ANSWER: (b) MPC = C/Y. Every time income rises by 1,000, consumption rises by
750.

14.

When income level is 0, consumption is

(a)
0.
(b)
250.
(c)
600.
(d)
1,000.
ANSWER: (c) When income is 2,000, consumption is 2,100. If income decreases by 2,000
and MPC is 0.75, consumption will decrease by 1,500.

15.

When output is 6,000, firms will

(a)
increase production.
(b)
decrease production.
(c)
increase planned investment.
(d)
decrease planned investment.
ANSWER: (b) Output exceeds planned aggregate expenditure and inventories are too high.
Firms would cut production.

Chapter 8 [23]: Aggregate Expenditure and Equilibrium Output

201

OBJECTIVE 4:
Analyze the effects on the macroeconomy of a change in planned investment or consumption.
Describe the role of the multiplier in the inventory-adjustment process and, given MPC, derive
the numerical value of the multiplier.
The multiplier measures the extent to which the output level will change given a particular initial
change in the level of spending. Its calculated by the formula: 1/(1 MPC) or 1/MPS. (p. 153 [465])

LEARNING TIP: You might find the subsequent material easier if you focus more on the 1/MPS
formula. The strength of the multiplier depends on how rapidly spending power leaks out of the
circular flow diagram. This is even more obvious when leakages other than saving (taxes, imports)
make their appearance.

One way to visualize the multiplier is to use the following circular flow diagram.
Consumption

Firms

+$100 investment

Saving

Households

Goods
Market

Income + $100

Households split their income into consumption expenditures and saving. Some investment
also takes place. Suppose MPC is 0.9 and MPS is 0.1. If, for example, firms indulge in an extra $100
of investment spending, then income rises by $100. Trace through the circular flowconsumption
rises by $90, $81, $72.90, and so on. Where is the rest going? Its leaking away into saving
(nonspending).
The same $100 increase in investment, with a lower MPC, such as 0.5, gives a lesssubstantial expansion in spending because the extra income drains away more quickly. The
multiplier is smaller, right?
The expansion is less if spending power drains away more rapidlyif MPS is relatively
high. The multiplier value is linked negatively to MPS and positively to MPC.
An increase in investment (or consumption) generates extra income. Extra income, however,
stimulates consumption and savingMPC and MPS determine how much consumption and saving
will rise. Extra consumption generates more new income. The process of spend-earn incomespend runs out of steam as progressively more of the extra dollars leak away into saving. (page 151
[463])

LEARNING TIP: As shown in the textbook, the multiplier model works given a change in investment,
but it is more general than that. The analysis works for any component of planned aggregate
expenditurein this chapter, consumption and investment and, in Ch. 9 (24), government spending.

Example: If planned investment increases, the AE line shifts upwards. At the initial output
level, inventories unexpectedly fall. As firms boost production to restore desired inventory levels,
income and consumption rise, and the economy moves to the point where the new (higher) AE
function crosses the 45 line. Now tell the same story using the saving/investment
(leakages/injections) approach.

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Study Guide to Principles of Macroeconomics

LEARNING TIP: Memorize the two multiplier formulas given on p. 153 [465]. Also, memorize the
likely values for the multiplier that might show up on a test. These are:
MPC
0.50
0.60
0.75
0.80
0.90

MPS

Multiplier
2.0
2.5
4.0
5.0
10.0

For practice, fill in the MPS values and confirm the multiplier values using both formulas.

Practice
By comparing the two cases that follow, you should get a good idea about how the multiplier
operates.
CASE 1: ARBOC. In Arboc, MPC is 0.9. The economy is in equilibrium. Suddenly, there is a 100opek increase in investment spending, which creates 100 opeks of extra income. The income is split
90:10 between new consumption and new saving. The new consumption spending generates
additional income.

New
Expenditure
100.00
90.00
81.00
72.90
65.61
.
.
.
1,000.00

New
Income
100.00
90.00
81.00
72.90
65.61
.
.
.
1,000.00

=
=
=
=
=
=

New
Consumption
90.00
81.00
72.90
65.61
59.05
.
.
.
900.00

+
+
+
+
+
+

New
Saving
10.00
9.00
8.10
7.29
6.56
.
.
.
100.00

This process goes through many rounds, only the first five of which are given. The final
row gives the total results.
Notes
1.
The initial injection of spending is 100; ultimately this will all become new saving.
Indeed, the opeks must continue to circulate (generating more income and expenditure) until
all of the extra 100 opeks have leaked into saving (non-consumption). The leakage must
equal the injection. The multipliers strength depends on how rapidly the injection of extra
spending leaks away.
2.
We know that income equals consumption plus investment. Income increased by 1,000,
consumption increased by 900, and investment increased by 100.
CASE 2: ARBEZ. In Arbez, MPC is 0.8. The economy is in equilibrium. Suddenly, there is a 100
bandu increase in investment spending, which creates 100 bandu of extra income. Income is split
80:20 between new consumption and new saving.
16.
Complete the following table.

Chapter 8 [23]: Aggregate Expenditure and Equilibrium Output

New
Expenditure
100.00

New
Income

.
.
.
500.00

.
.
.
500.00

=
=
=
=
=
=

New
Consumption

.
.
.
400.00

+
+
+
+
+
+

203

New
Saving

.
.
.
100.00

ANSWER: Refer to the following table.

New
Expenditure
100.00
80.00
64.00
51.20
40.96
.
.
.
500.00

New
Income
100.00
80.00
64.00
51.20
40.96
.
.
.
500.00

=
=
=
=
=
=

New
Consumption
80.00
64.00
51.20
40.96
32.77
.
.
.
400.00

+
+
+
+
+
+

New
Saving
20.00
16.00
12.80
10.24
8.19
.
.
.
100.00

Notes
1.
As in Case 1, the initial injection of spending leaks away to saving; ultimately all of this
injection of spending ends up as new saving.
2.
Income increases by 500, consumption increases by 400, and investment increases by 100.
3.
The expansion in income is less in Case 2 (the multiplier is smaller) because MPC is smaller
(MPS is greater). The extra 100 units of spending leak away into saving more slowly in Case
1 and are recycled more frequently.
Remember: The steeper the AE curve, the higher the value of the multiplier. Can you figure out
why?
17.

The formula for the multiplier is

(a)
1/MPC.
(b)
1/MPS.
(c)
1/(1 MPS).
(d)
1/(1 + MPS).
ANSWER: (b) Refer to p. 153 [465] for the two versions of the multiplier formula.

Use the following diagram, which builds on the previous diagram, to answer the next five questions.

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Study Guide to Principles of Macroeconomics

AE
45
AE
C

1000
800

4000 5000
Aggregate output

18.

The level of investment in this economy is

(a)
200.
(b)
800.
(c)
1,000.
(d)
5,000
ANSWER: (a) AE = C + I. When Y = 0, AE = 1,000, and C = 800.

19.

The slope of the AE function is

(a)
0.6.
(b)
0.75.
(c)
0.8.
(d)
0.9.
ANSWER: (c) The slope of the AE function depends on MPC. Question 6 determined that
MPC is 0.8. If we refer to the AE function by itself, we get the same result.
Spending increases by 4,000 (from 1,000 to 5,000) as income increases
from 0 to 5,000.

20.

The multiplier has a value of

(a)
4.
(b)
5.
(c)
8.
(d)
10.
ANSWER: (b) The multiplier formula is 1/(1 MPC). MPC is 0.8.

21.

If planned investment increases by 100, equilibrium output level will increase by

.
equilibrium, saving will equal
(a)
100; 200
(b)
100; 300
(c)
500; 200
(d)
500; 300

. In

ANSWER: (d) The multiplier is 5. Equilibrium output will increase by 500 (100 5). In
equilibrium, saving equals investment. Recall that investment was 200 and
rose further by a 100. Alternatively, because MPS is 0.2 (can you see why?),
an increase in income of 500 will cause a 100 increase in saving.
22.

When the output level is 4,000, unplanned inventories will

(a)
increase by 1,000.
(b)
increase by200.

Chapter 8 [23]: Aggregate Expenditure and Equilibrium Output

205

(c)
decrease by1,000.
(d)
decrease by 200.
ANSWER: (d) At an output level of 5,000, planned aggregate expenditure is 5,000. If
income falls by 1,000, consumption falls only by 800 because MPC is 0.8.
Therefore, we know that, at an output level of 4,000, planned aggregate
expenditure is 4,200. Planned aggregate expenditure is 200 more than
output and inventories will decrease accordingly.
23.

If the slope of the AE function became steeper, MPC would become

.
multiplier would become
(a)
larger; larger
(b)
larger; smaller
(c)
smaller; larger
(d)
smaller; smaller
ANSWER: (a) Refer to Case A and Case B above.

and the

OBJECTIVE 5:
Describe the reasoning behind the paradox of thrift and explain what is paradoxical.
The paradox of thrift shows that attempts to increase saving (an upward shift in the saving function
and a downward shift in the consumption function) will be fruitless. Total saving wont change, but
the economy will suffer a decrease in output (income) level. (page 154 [466])
Note: The paradox of thrift is inevitable, given our model. Investment is constant and, when
equilibrium is achieved, saving must equal that value. As long as investment behavior does not
change, saving can neither increase nor decrease.
ECONOMICS IN PRACTICE: On page 154 [466], the textbook raises the issue of the paradox of
thrift. At first sight, this result may seem enough to persuade you that Keynes must have got it
wrong somewhere! After all, as children we are taught that it is wise to save (if not fun).
Economists show that there is a clear link between saving and economic growth. There are, in fact,
two components to the paradox of thriftone involving the level of income (production) and the
other involving the level of saving in the economy. Assuming that households decide to save more,
what does our model predict will happen to (i) income and (ii) saving?
ANSWER: Given more saving initially, consumption will decrease, pulling down the level of income
as the economy adjusts to its new equilibriumthriftiness seems to reduce our standard of living.
Saving will remain unchanged (although the distribution of saving may change)trying to save
more appears impossible.
ECONOMICS IN PRACTICE (CONTINUED): In part, the result is due to the assumption that planned
investment is constant. If saving and investment must be equal in equilibrium, and investment is
constant, then the level of saving cant change. However, do you think that the level of planned
investment is fixed, or do you think that, as production increases, investment will also increase? If
so, does the paradoxical result disappear?

ANSWER: Evidence shows that planned investment does increase as the economy grows. That
means that planned investment must decrease as the economy shrinks. An increase in saving
(decrease in spending) will make the economy (and investment) shrink. The final equilibrium level

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Study Guide to Principles of Macroeconomics

of saving, therefore, will be lower than the initial level. Injecting some realism into the model makes
the paradoxical result more intense!
ECONOMICS IN PRACTICE (CONTINUED): At this point, it is a natural reaction to give up on
Keynes. However, during the Great Depression, households did cut consumption and the economy
did contract. As the textbook indicates, there is a resolution, and it comes through financial markets.
How might increased saving stimulate increased investment?
ANSWER: Higher supplies of funds (saving) in financial markets should reduce the price (interest
rate) of those funds. Cheaper loans should encourage more borrowing by businesses for investment
purposes. More on this in Chapter 12 (27). Finally, as youll discover in Chapter 13 (28), as
demand in the economy declines, the aggregate price level will decrease, encouraging additional
expenditures.
Practice
24.

Refer to the table used in Practice Question 10. The economy is in equilibrium. If saving
and consumption will decrease
increases by 100, equilibrium output will decrease by
.
by
(a)
100; 100
(b)
100, 400
(c)
400; 100
(d)
400; 400
ANSWER: (d) MPC is 0.75 (Question 13); the multiplier is 4. If saving increases by 100,
consumption decreases by 100 and output decreases by 400 (100 4).
When output (income) decreases by 400, consumption is reduced by an
additional 300. The total decrease in consumption is 400.

25.

If households increase saving, the paradox of thrift indicates that, in equilibrium,

and output will
.
consumption will
(a)
decrease; increase
(b)
decrease; decrease
(c)
not increase; increase
(d)
not increase; decrease
ANSWER: (b) The increase in saving causes consumption to decrease. The decrease in
consumption spending will make equilibrium output decrease. As income
falls, consumption falls even more.

SUMMARY: EQUILIBRIUM CONDITIONS

Equilibrium can be described in several ways. Learn them all!

Chapter 8 [23]: Aggregate Expenditure and Equilibrium Output

Planned aggregate expenditure

C+S
S
Planned investment
Unplanned inventory change

=
=
=
=
=

207

aggregate output (income)

C+I
I
actual investment
0

Note: As the model is extended in later chapters, all but the first of these conditions will be modified.
BRAIN TEASER SOLUTION: If youre like most people, youd end up spending most of the extra
dollars. Often, households save about 5% of the additional income received and spend the rest. MPS
is 0.05, MPC is 0.95, and the multiplier is 20. Clearly, the multiplier model in the present chapter has
omitted some ingredients. Taxes, which increase as income increases, drain some dollars from the
spend-earn income-spend process. As demand increases, rising prices and higher interest rates
choke off spending. Some dollars are spent overseas.
PRACTICE TEST
I.

MULTIPLE-CHOICE QUESTIONS

Select the option that provides the single best answer.

1.

MPC is
divided by
(a)
consumption, income.
(b)
change in consumption, income.
(c)
change in consumption, change in income.
(d)
consumption, change in income.

2.

The larger the value of MPC, the

(a)
larger the value of the multiplier.
(b)
steeper the slope of the saving function.
(c)
smaller the value of the multiplier.
(d)
flatter the slope of the consumption function.

Use the following table to answer the next three questions.

Income
2,000
3,000
4,000
5,000
6,000
7,000

3.

Consumption
1,800
2,600
3,400
4,200
5,000
5,800

The equilibrium income level is

(a)
7,000; 200
(b)
greater than 7,000; 1,000
(c)
6,000; 1,000
(d)
1,000; 100

Investment
1,000
1,000
1,000
1,000
1,000
1,000

and the equilibrium saving level is

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Study Guide to Principles of Macroeconomics

4.

The MPS is
(a)
0.1; 10
(b)
0.2; 5
(c)
0.2; 10
(d)
0.1; 5

and the multiplier is

5.

If planned saving suddenly rises by 100, then, at the new equilibrium, income will
. Eventually, saving will
.
(a)
fall by 100; fall by 100
(b)
fall by 500; not change
(c)
fall by 500; fall by 100
(d)
fall by 100; not change

Use the following table to answer the next three questions.

Income
0
100
200
300
1,000
2,000

Consumption
100
180
260
340
900
1,700

6.

Referring to the equation C = a + bY, the value of a is

(a)
0
(b)
20
(c)
80
(d)
100

7.

Marginal propensity to consume is

(a)
80
(b)
0.2
(c)
0.8
(d)
0.9

8.

An increase in investment of $100 would

(a)
raise; 500
(b)
raise; 100
(c)
lower; 500
(d)
lower; 100

9.

The economy is in equilibrium at an output level of 2,000. Now planned investment

increases. At the initial output level, all of the following are true EXCEPT
(a)
aggregate expenditure is greater than aggregate output.
(b)
saving is less than planned investment.
(c)
inventory levels are rising unexpectedly.
(d)
consumption level has remained unchanged.

10.

A decrease in MPS would

income by

Chapter 8 [23]: Aggregate Expenditure and Equilibrium Output

(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)

209

cause the consumption function to shift upwards, all along its length.
cause the consumption function to shift downwards, all along its length.
cause the consumption function to rotate upwards, pivoting where it meets
the vertical axis.
have no effect on the consumption function.

11.

In our model, MPC must be less than

(a)
one; one
(b)
one; zero
(c)
zero; one
(d)
zero; zero

and MPS must exceed

12.

If planned investment suddenly decreases, the AE line will shift

.
equilibrium saving will
(a)
upward; increase
(b)
upward; decrease
(c)
downward; increase
(d)
downward; decrease

13.

Equilibrium occurs when aggregate output is equal to planned

.
(a)
consumption; saving
(b)
consumption; investment
(c)
investment; saving
(d)
inventories; investment

14.

Aggregate output is currently less than planned aggregate expenditure. We can

and saving is
than
predict that inventory levels are unexpectedly
planned investment.
(a)
increasing; greater
(b)
increasing; less
(c)
decreasing; greater
(d)
decreasing; less

15.

Which of the following statements is true?

(a)
Savings is the difference between current income and current consumption.
(b)
When expenditures are high, saving is less than actual investment.
(c)
Saving is a flow variable: savings is a stock variable.
(d)
When the interest rate falls, saving increases and consumption decreases.

16.

If income is zero, consumption will be

(a)
positive.
(b)
zero, because you cant spend what you dont have.
(c)
zero, because consumption and saving must sum to equal income.
(d)
unknownit depends on the slope of the consumption function.

17.

As consumer uncertainty in the future increases, consumption will

.
will

and

plus planned

and saving

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Study Guide to Principles of Macroeconomics

(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)

increase; increase
increase; decrease
decrease; increase
decrease; decrease

18.

Firms have the least control over

(a)
inventory levels.
(b)
production levels.
(c)
planned investment.
(d)
purchases of new equipment.

19.

MPC equals 0.9. Consumers receive an extra $100 of income. We can say that
(a)
the consumption function has moved upwards.
(b)
the consumption function has moved downwards.
(c)
consumption spending increases by $100.
(d)
saving increases by $10.

20.

MPC equals 0.9. Planned investment is 100 and equilibrium income level is 1,000.
If income were at 800, what would be the level of saving?
(a)
100
(b)
90
(c)
80
(d)
70
Use the following diagram to answer the next five questions.
S, I

S
I

200

0
1000

100

Aggregate output

21.

The equation for this consumption function is

(a)
C = 100 + 0.8Y.
(b)
C = 100 + 0.9Y.
(c)
C = 200 + 0.8Y.
(d)
C = 200 + 0.9Y.

22.

The multiplier value is

(a)
0.9.
(b)
8.
(c)
9.
(d)
10.

23.

The equilibrium output level is

(a)
200.

Chapter 8 [23]: Aggregate Expenditure and Equilibrium Output

(b)
(c)
(d)

1,000.
3,000.
4,000.

24.

If investment decreases by 50, equilibrium output will decrease by

.
consumption will decrease by
(a)
200, 450
(b)
200, 500
(c)
500, 450
(d)
500, 500

25.

The equation for this saving function is

(a)
S = 100 + 0.1Y.
(b)
S = 100 + 0.9Y.
(c)
S = 100 + 0.1Y.
(d)
S = 100 + 0.9Y.

II.

APPLICATION QUESTIONS

1.

The Arbezani Minister of Macroeconomics gives you the following data about Arbez.
C
I
AE
AE
(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
(e)
(f)

(g)
(h)
(i)
(j)
(k)
(l)

211

=
=
=
=

300 + 0.75Y
200
C+I
Y

and

(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)

Calculate the marginal propensity to consume and the marginal propensity to save.
Derive the algebraic formula for the saving function.
What are the four conditions necessary for the economy to be in equilibrium?
Using your knowledge of the model, confirm that each equilibrium condition is
consistent with the others.
Solve for equilibrium income. Calculate equilibrium income.
Graph equations (3) and (4) in the following diagram.

If GDP were 1,200, unplanned inventory accumulation would be how much?

If GDP were 2,200, unplanned inventory accumulation would be how much?
Based on these results, make up a rule relating the direction of unplanned inventory
change, the 45 line, and the expenditure function.
How much saving will occur if GDP is 1,200?
How much saving will occur if GDP is 2,200?
Calculate the value of the multiplier.

212

Study Guide to Principles of Macroeconomics

When the economy is at the natural rate of unemployment, the output level is 2,800.
(m)
How much would investment have to change to create full employment?
The economy is at its original equilibrium income level. Now, because of a surge in
consumer optimism, consumption increases by 100 at each income level.
(n)
Inventories are changing by how much? Are they rising or falling?
(o)
Calculate the new equilibrium income level.
(p)
Calculate the new equilibrium consumption level.
(q)
Calculate the new equilibrium saving level.
(r)
Calculate the new equilibrium investment level.
(s)
Explain the result that has emerged regarding the net amount of change in the level
of saving.
2.

Most of the ideas associated with the consumption function are quite intuitive. Try to prove
to yourself that the theory reflects common sense. The following questions cover many of
the main points about consumption and saving that are dealt with in this chapter.
(a)
Suppose you have received a $100 per week wage increase (after tax). Would you
spend:
(i)
All of the extra $100?
(ii)
Some of the extra $100?
(iii)
None of the extra $100?
(b)
Would you save:
(i)
All of the extra $100?
(ii)
Some of the extra $100?
(iii)
None of the extra $100?
(c)
The level of disposable income affects the amount spent and saved. Do you agree or
disagree with the following statements?
(i)
Other things, as well as income, affect how much I spend and save.
(ii)
If I increase my personal consumption expenditures, I will have less
available to save.
(iii)
If I had no current income, Id still try to buy food and other necessities.
(iv)
Poor households spend a bigger proportion of their income than rich
households do.
(d)
Given my income level, if I increase my personal spending by $1, my saving will
(increase/decrease) by
(more than/less than/exactly) a dollar.
In most other cases you should find yourself agreeing with the textbooks theory of
consumption and saving.

3.

Ask (or pretend to ask) five persons the following question:

Chapter 8 [23]: Aggregate Expenditure and Equilibrium Output

213

You are a typical consumer with an after-tax income of $100 per week. How much
of your income will you set aside as saving?
Now ask yourself (the owner of a small business):
How much of your expected value of production (which you forecast to be $500 per
week) will you plan to plow back into the firm? (Remember you have employees
and other bills to pay!)
Enter the results of the two questions in the following table.
Saving

Investment

Theres no single right answerit depends on preferences, wealth, and so on. Its unlikely
saving and planned investment will be equal. Suppose saving totals $15 and planned
investment equals $20.
(a)
Which is greater: C + I or C + S?
(b)
Which is greater: planned aggregate expenditure or aggregate output?
(c)
Will firms be able to meet the planned demand for output, given their current level
of production?
(d)
What will happen?
(e)
Write the formula for actual investment.
(f)
Calculate actual investment.
So actual investment is forced to the saving level!
4.

Investment is equal to 100. Consumption is equal to income. MPC equals 0.9.

.
(a)
Saving is equal to
(b)
Currently, the marginal propensity to save equals zero. (True/False)
(is/is not) in equilibrium. Aggregate expenditure is
(c)
Currently, the economy
(greater than/less than) aggregate output.
(d)
Calculate the value of the multiplier.
(positive/negative).
(e)
Unplanned inventory change is
(rise/fall) by
, in
(f)
To establish equilibrium, output level will have to
(rise/fall) by
and saving will
which case consumption will
.
(rise/fall) by
Now suppose that the income level (where consumption equals income) is 1,000.
and saving will equal
(g)
When income equals zero, consumption will equal
.
(h)
Calculate the formula for the consumption function.
(i)
Algebraically, confirm your results from (f) above, and calculate the equilibrium
income level.
(j)
Sketch the saving-investment diagram, showing the slope of the saving function, the
present income level (1,000) and the equilibrium income level.

214

5.

Study Guide to Principles of Macroeconomics

(a)

Fill in the blanks in the following table, based on the model given in the text.
Income
0
100
200
300
400
500
600
700
MPC =

(b)
(c)
(d)
(e)

(f)

Consumption

Saving

Investment

Expenditures

180
260
20

MPS =

multiplier =

.
The equilibrium output level is
Algebraically, determine the consumption function.
Confirm your answer to (b) algebraically.
When income level is 300, there will be unplanned inventory
(accumulation/decumulation) while, at an income level of 700, inventories will
(increase/decrease).
unexpectedly
Graph the AE function on the following 45 line diagram. Show the income range in
which inventories will be rising unexpectedly and the income range in which they
will be falling.
45

(g)
(h)
(i)
(j)

If investment increases by 50, by how much would equilibrium output level

increase?
and
respectively.
Consumption and saving would increase by
and investment would be
.
The final value of saving would be
Confirm your results for (g), (h), and (i) algebraically.

Chapter 8 [23]: Aggregate Expenditure and Equilibrium Output

(k)

215

The economys equilibrium income level is 850. Suppose that 1,000 is the level of
production that would provide full employment. How much more would investment
have to rise in order to achieve full employment?

6.

Suppose that the consumption function does not graph as a straight line, but rather increases
at a decreasing rate (flattening off). Given your knowledge of the relationships between
consumption, saving, and income, could you now draw the saving function? What sort of
slope would it have? What would be happening to the value of the multiplier as income level
increased?

7.

We have modeled investment as remaining constant as output level increases. Suppose,

more realistically, that investment increases as income level rises. What would happen to the
slope of the AE curve? What would happen to the value of the multiplier?

PRACTICE TEST SOLUTIONS

I.

Solutions to Multiple-Choice Questions

1.

(c)

Refer to p. 143 [455] for the definition.

2.

(a)

The multiplier formula is 1/(1 MPC). Refer to p. 153 [465].

3.

(c)

Equilibrium occurs where income equals consumption plus investment, at 6,000. In

equilibrium, S = I, so saving must equal 1,000. Alternatively, when income is 6,000
and consumption is 5,000, saving must be 1,000.

4.

(b)

When the income level changes by 1,000 (from 3,000 to 4,000, for example),
consumption increases by 800 (from 2,600 to 3,400). The additional 200 is saved.
MPS = change in saving/change in income = S/Y = 200/1,000 = 0.2. The
multiplier = 1/MPS = 1/0.2 = 5.

5.

(b)

If saving rises by 100, consumption must fall initially by 100, given the income
level. The multiplier is 5. The final change in equilibrium income is 500 (i.e., 100
5). If income falls by 500 and the MPC is 0.8, consumption will fall by an additional
400. The total decrease in consumption is 500.

6.

(d)

In the equation, bY is the portion of consumption that responds to changes in

income. When income is zero, consumption is 100.

7.

(c)

8.

(a)

When the income level changes by 100 (from 200 to 300, for example),
consumption increases by 80 (from 180 to 260). MPC = change in
consumption/change in income = C/Y = 80/100 = 0.8.
If expenditure increases, then equilibrium income will increase. The multiplier is 5
because MPC is 0.8. The multiplier equals 1/(1 MPC). Income, then, will increase
by 500 (i.e., 100 5).

9.

(c)

Because the demand for goods has risen, inventory levels will be drawn down.

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Study Guide to Principles of Macroeconomics

10.

(c)

MPS is the slope of the saving function. A decrease in MPS requires an increase in
MPC. An increase in MPC will cause the slope of the consumption function to
become steeper.

11.

(b)

If income increases by 100, our theory assumes that we consume some quantity less
than 100 and save some positive quantity.

12.

(d)

Investment is a part of aggregate expenditure. A decrease in investment will

decrease AE, shifting the line downward. In equilibrium, S = I. If investment falls,
saving must fall too.

13.

(b)

In equilibrium, Y = C + I. Refer to p. 148 [460].

14.

(d)

If aggregate output is less than planned aggregate expenditure, then demand is high.
Inventory levels will be falling. Because spending is high, saving is low and will be
less than planned investment.

15.

(c)

Savings is the accumulation of saving from past periods; it is a stock, while saving is
a process (a flow). Saving always equals actual investment. When the interest rate
falls, saving decreases and consumption increases.

16.

(a)

The slope of the consumption function is irrelevant in this question. Consumption is

positive even when income is zero because it is necessary to buy food, housing, and
other staples of life. Without income, this is financed by dissaving.

17.

(c)

When future prospects are less clear, households tend to hold back on purchases,
saving more of their current income.

18.

(a)

Firms choose output levels and set up investment programs, but their inventory
levels are affected by sales which are dependent on the whims of their customers.

19.

(d)

An increase in income will not shift the consumption functionthere will be a

movement along it. If MPC is 0.6, MPS is 0.1. A $100 increase in income will
generate a $10 increase ($100 0.1) in saving.

20.

(c)

Equilibrium income level is 1,000 and planned investment is 100. In equilibrium,

consumption must be 900 and saving must be 100. If income falls by 200,
consumption falls by 180 (200 0.9) and saving falls by 20 (200 0.1). Saving will
be 80.

21.

(b)

The intercept term (a) is 100 because income is zero and C + S must equal this. As
income increases from zero to 1,000, saving increases from 100 to 0, an increase of
100. MPS = change in saving/change in income = S/Y = 100/1,000 = 0.1. MPC =
1 MPS.

22.

(d)

The multiplier equals 1/(1 MPC).

23.

(c)

In equilibrium, saving must equal investment and, therefore, must equal 200. For
saving to increase by 300 (from 100 to 200), income must increase by 3,000 (from
zero) if MPS is 0.1.

Chapter 8 [23]: Aggregate Expenditure and Equilibrium Output

217

24.

(c)

Expenditure decreases by 50. The multiplier is 10. Equilibrium output will decrease
by 500 (50 10). Because MPC is 0.9, consumption will decrease by 450 (500
0.9). Saving will fall by 50 (500 MPS), causing saving to be 150 and to be equal to
investment.

25.

(c)

S = Y C = Y (100 + 0.9Y) = 100 + 0.1Y.

II.

Solutions to Application Questions

1.

(a)

(b)
(c)

(d)

(e)

(f)

MPC = 0.75. Equation 1 tells us that, as income (Y) increases by 100, consumption
increases by 75. MPS = 0.25. Recall that MPC + MPS = 1. Alternatively, as income
(Y) increases by 100 and consumption increases by 75, the remaining 25 must be
saved.
S = 300 + 0.25Y.
The equilibrium conditions are:
Planned aggregate expenditure = aggregate output (income)
(1)
C+S = C+I
PLANNED SAVING = PLANNED INVESTMENT
(2)
S = I
Planned investment = actual investment
(3)
Unplanned inventory change = 0
(4)
If, in equilibrium, equation (1) holds, then (2) must also hold because AE is defined
as consumption plus investment and Y is defined as consumption plus saving.
Similarly, canceling the consumptions, we can derive (3).
We know that actual investment always equals planned investment plus
unplanned inventory change. In equilibrium, unplanned inventory change is zero
(5), therefore equation (4) is consistent. If actual investment equals planned
investment plus zero, then actual investment equals planned investment.
Y = C + I (in equilibrium)
Y = 300 + 0.75Y + 200 = 500 + 0.75Y
Y 0.75Y = 500
0.25Y = 500
Y = 2,000

Refer to the diagram following.

218

Study Guide to Principles of Macroeconomics

AE
45 AE = Y

AE
500

2000

Aggregate output

(g)
(h)
(i)

200 decrease in inventories. Demand (1,400) exceeds production (1,200).

50 increase in inventories. Production (2,200) exceeds demand (2,150).
At income levels where the AE line is above the 45 line, unplanned inventory
change will be negative (e.g., when Y = 1,200); at income levels where the AE line is
below the 45 line, unplanned inventory change will be positive (e.g., when Y =
2,200).
(j)
C = 300 + 0.75Y. Y = 1,200. C = 300 + 0.75(1,200) = 1,200. S = Y C = 0.
(k)
C = 300 + 0.75Y. Y = 2,200. C = 300 + 0.75(2,200) = 1,950. S = Y C = 250.
(l)
An autonomous 100-unit increase in expenditure causes a 400 increase in
equilibrium income. The multiplier is 4.00.
Check: Multiplier = 1/(1 MPC) = 1/0.25 = 4.00
(m)
Y = m I. m = 4 and Y = 800, therefore I = 200.
(n)
Inventories are falling by 100 as producers use previously produced output to meet
the unexpected demand.
(o)
Y = C + I (in equilibrium)
Y = 400 + 0.75Y + 200 = 600 + 0.75Y
Y 0.75Y = 600
0.25Y = 600
Y = 2,400
(p)
When Y = 2,400, C = 400 + 0.75(2,400) = 2,200
(q)
When Y = 2,400, S = 400 + 0.25(2,400) = 200
Check: Y = C + S; 2,400 = 2,200 + 200
(r)
I is unchanged at 200. Note that, in equilibrium, S = I.
(s)
Saving has remained unchanged. In equilibrium, S = I, and I has remained
unchanged.
2.

(a)
(b)

(c)

(d)

3.

(a)

some (probably most, in fact)

some
If you answered all for (i) you should have answered none for (ii). Such
answers indicate youre not typicalmost folks try to set some saving aside.
Groups who dont are the young (who may have high initial expenses and low
incomes) and the retired (who dont earn much).
You probably agree with all of these statements.
The other things in (i) and the logic behind (iv) will be developed in Chapter 12
(27).
If I increase my personal spending by $1, my saving will decrease by exactly $1.
If you missed this one, reread the first few pages of the chapter!
C + I exceeds C + S because I exceeds S.

Chapter 8 [23]: Aggregate Expenditure and Equilibrium Output

4.

219

(b)
(c)
(d)
(e)
(f)

aggregate expenditure
No
Firms will have to reduce their inventories unexpectedly.
Actual investment = planned investment + unplanned inventory change.
15 = 20 + 5.

(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
(e)
(f)

Zero. If consumption equals income, no income can be saved.

False. Because MPC equals 0.9, we can say that MPS equals 0.1.
is not; greater than.
10. Multiplier = 1/(1 MPC) = 1/0.1 =10.
negative. Planned aggregate expenditure exceeds aggregate output.
rise; 1,000; rise; 900; rise; 100. The gap between planned aggregate expenditure
and aggregate output is 100. The multiplier is 10. Equilibrium income will fall by
1,000. MPC is 0.9. Given the increase in income, consumption will increase by
1,000 0.9. MPS is 0.1. Given the increase in income, saving will increase by 1,000
0.1.
100; 100. If income changes from zero to 1,000, consumption increases by 900 to
1,000 (because MPC is 0.9). We know, therefore, that consumption is (1,000 900)
when income level is zero. Because income equals consumption plus saving, saving
must equal 100.
C = 100 + 0.9Y.
Y = C+ I

(g)

(h)
(i)

= 100 + .9Y + 100

= 200 + .9Y
Y .9Y = 200
.1Y = 200
Y = 2,000
(j)

Refer to the diagram following.

S, I
S

100

0
1000
2000
Aggregate output

5.

(a)

Refer to the following table. When income rises by 100 (from 100 to 200),
consumption rises by 80 (from 180 to 260). MPC, therefore, is 0.8. MPC + MPS =
1, therefore MPS = 0.2. Given MPC, the consumption column can be filled in.

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Study Guide to Principles of Macroeconomics

Given income and consumption, saving can be derived by subtraction. Investment is

assumed to be constant at 20. The expenditure column is derived by adding
consumption and investment.
Income
0
100
200
300
400
500
600
700

Consumption
100
180
260
340
420
500
580
660

MPC = 0.8
(b)
(c)
(d)

MPS = 0.2

Saving
100
80
60
40
20
0
20
40

Investment
20
20
20
20
20
20
20
20

Expenditures
120
200
280
360
440
520
600
680

multiplier = 5

600. Equilibrium occurs where planned expenditure equals income (and where
saving equals investment).
C = 100 + 0.8Y
Y = 100 + .8Y + 20

.2Y = 120
(e)
(f)

Y = 600
decumulation; increase
Refer to the following diagram.
C+I
45
AE
120

0
Y
600
Unplanned Unplanned
inventory inventory
decrease increase
Aggregate output

(g)
(h)
(i)

250. The multiplier is 5.

200; 50. Consumption increases by 0.8 Y. Saving increases by 0.2 Y.
70; 70. In equilibrium these two values must be equal.
Y = 100 + 0.8Y + 70

Chapter 8 [23]: Aggregate Expenditure and Equilibrium Output

(j)

(k)

6.

221

0.2Y = 170
Y = 850
C = 100 + 0.8Y
= 100 + 0.8(850) = 780
At Y = 600, C was 580 (Refer to the preceding table.)
S = Y C = 850 780 = 70.
At Y = 600, S was 20 (Refer to the preceding table.)
30. The economys equilibrium income level is 850, 150 short of the goal. The
multiplier is 5, so an autonomous 30-unit increase, multiplied by 5, will hit the
target.

The slope of the consumption function is MPC and the slope of the saving function is MPS.
We know that MPC + MPS equals one. MPC decreases as the slope of the consumption
function becomes flatter, so MPS must increase and the slope of the saving function must
become progressively steeper. The value of the multiplier is given by the formula: 1/MPS.
As MPS increases, the size of the multiplier will decrease as income level increases. In fact,
the effect of this weakened multiplier can be shown graphically. The same vertical increase
in aggregate spending will push the economys equilibrium income level less far when the
slope of the AE curve is decreasing.
S

Y
Aggregate output

7.

The AE function is the total of the consumption function and the investment function. In the
original model, the slope of AE is determined solely by the slope of the consumption
functioni.e., MPC. However, the slope of the AE curve is properly interpreted as the
change in spending (from both sources) that occurs as income changes. If investment also

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Study Guide to Principles of Macroeconomics

increases, as income increases, the AE curve will become steeper. The value of the multiplier
will increase too; in the more complex model well be developing in later chapters, the
multiplier formulas we have devised are incomplete. In fact, the effect of this strengthened
multiplier can be shown graphically. The same vertical increase in aggregate spending will
push the economys equilibrium income level farther as the AE curve becomes steeper.
AE
45
C+I
C

Y
Aggregate output